While the country of Panama is very small geographically, around 3 million people live in the city. So they need to make a lot of room. Most of the buildings I've seen were constructed in the past 5 years. Americans investors own a lot of the real estate in the city. Overall, there many American move to Panama after the retire becuase its warm and very cheap.

Shopping i awesome! Especially at a store called Conway. I see the cutest shirts/pants/dresses for around $10. Of course, you have to check to make sure they are decent quality. But over all, the shopping is awesome if you find the right stores!

Many Panamanians speak English too. This has to do with the canal the fact that up until recently many American soldiers were stationed in city to help monitor the canal, which the US completely owned until the 70s.

I went to the Canal museum called Miraflores. Very interesting. While American actually constructed the canal, it was first started by the French. But for numerous reasons, including corruption and money problems, they abandoned it. As of now, the big issue is expanding the canal. The museum said that if it's not expanded, by 2012 the canal will lose importance. Now when I say expand, I dont mean to widen it, but rahter add 2 smaller canals from the pacific and atlantic that will connect to the main one, this will allow for more ships to enter.

Overall, I really like Panama, although it can get VERY hot during this time of the year. I've attached pictures. Including ones from when I got up close and personal with some monkies while at the beach!!